Description
The Howa Lightning Ultra Light .22-250 Winchester 20″ Lightweight Barrel Blue Finish Black Synthetic Stock 5rd is a purpose-built, budget-friendly hunting rifle designed for the shooter who needs to cover ground. It combines Howa’s reliable 1500 action with a lightweight synthetic stock and a short, handy 20-inch barrel chambered in the flat-shooting .22-250 Remington, all for a price that makes high-performance varmint and predator hunting accessible.
Key Features
- Ultra-Lightweight Build: The synthetic stock and short, tapered barrel keep weight down for all-day carry in the field.
- .22-250 Remington Chambering: Offers blistering velocity and flat trajectory for extended-range varmint control and predator hunting.
- Howa 1500 Action: A proven, solid platform known for its smooth operation and reliable ignition.
- Budget-Conscious Price Point: At $441.04, it delivers core hunting performance without the premium cost of many lightweight rifles.
- Low-Maintenance Finish: Blue steel barrel and action paired with a durable black synthetic stock stand up to field use.
Specifications & Details
| Caliber | .22-250 Remington |
| Barrel Length | 20 Inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 40 Inches |
| Weight | Approx. 6.5 lbs |
| Magazine Capacity | 5 Rounds (Detachable Box Magazine) |
| Stock Material | Black Synthetic |
Here’s the thing—you’re getting a dedicated hunting tool, not a range toy. The 20-inch barrel is a practical trade-off. It sheds weight and improves handling in brush or a truck cab, though you’ll sacrifice a bit of muzzle velocity compared to a 24-inch tube. The real value is in the complete package: a ready-to-hunt rifle that fits out of the box with common optics from brands like Vortex or Leupold using standard bases for the Howa 1500 action. No gunsmithing required to mount a scope and get zeroed. With an approximate weight of 6.5 pounds, this rifle won’t weigh you down during long stalks.
Who This Rifle Is For
This rifle is built for the active hunter. Think Missouri coyote hunters working fence lines, farmers managing groundhog populations, or anyone who walks miles between stands. If your priority is a reliable, lightweight rifle that won’t break the bank, this Howa hits the mark. It’s also a solid choice for a first dedicated varmint rifle or a backup gun kept in the farm truck. The .22-250 cartridge, with its high velocity, is devastating on small predators and prairie dogs but requires mindful ammunition selection for larger game due to its construction.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Exceptional value for a lightweight hunting rifle. The .22-250 chambering provides outstanding long-range performance for its intended use. The synthetic stock and blue finish are durable and low-maintenance. The short barrel makes it very handy in tight quarters. Howa’s action has a strong reputation for reliability.
Cons: The lightweight barrel can heat up quickly during sustained firing strings, potentially affecting point of impact—this is a hunter, not a benchrest gun. The synthetic stock is functional but may lack the aesthetic appeal of wood. The .22-250 round has significant muzzle blast and report, especially from a 20-inch barrel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the .22-250 suitable for deer hunting in Missouri?
A: While legal for deer in Missouri with specific ammunition, the .22-250 is not generally recommended as a primary deer cartridge. It’s a varmint round. For ethical deer hunting, calibers like .243 Winchester or 6.5 Creedmoor offer better bullet construction and energy. This Howa is best used within its design parameters for coyote, fox, and groundhog.
Q: What kind of scope base does it use?
A: The Howa 1500 action uses a specific footprint. It’s compatible with scope bases and rings made for the Howa 1500 or Weatherby Vanguard (which uses the same action). Popular one-piece rail or two-piece base sets from brands like EGW, Warne, or Talley are widely available.
Q: How does it compare to a Ruger American or Savage Axis in the same price range?
A: It’s a direct competitor. The Howa often edges them out in perceived action smoothness and trigger quality out of the box. The real differentiator is the dedicated lightweight build—many budget rifles in this class weigh closer to 7.5 lbs. For the hunter prioritizing every ounce, the Howa Lightning Ultra Light’s approximate 6.5-pound weight is a tangible advantage. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, with an FFL transfer required for firearm purchases.
If you need a no-fuss, carry-all-day rifle for varmints and predators that delivers performance without draining your wallet, the Howa Lightning Ultra Light .22-250 deserves a close look. Check availability and pricing.
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